A lot of pottery is being purchased in Musabani Haat on the occasion of Makar Sankranti.
Musabani: shopping traditions and hustle and bustle in the markets
Before Makar Sankranti (January 14), there is a festive atmosphere in the main market and rural markets of Musabani since morning. There is tremendous enthusiasm among the local people regarding the festival. Increased demand for bamboo and earthen utensils: In rural areas, there is an ancient tradition of making 'Jaggery Pitha' and 'Meat Pitha' on the occasion of Makar. The use of new bamboo soup, dala (basket) and earthen pots to keep it is considered auspicious. For this reason, there is a huge crowd of customers gathering near the potters and bamboo artisans. There is a lot of excitement in the cloth market: There is no space to keep moles even in the temporary shops of clothes. Crowds of rural women and youth are gathering at the shops of shoes, slippers and cosmetics throughout the day. Traders believe that the crowd will be at its peak on Sunday (January 11) as people will then head towards the Tusu fairs.
Baharagora: Howrah Haat gives new edge to rural economy
The historic Howrah Haat was inaugurated on Saturday at Sairat Ground in Baharagora. This haat was jointly inaugurated by local MLA Sameer Mohanty and Zilla Parishad President Bari Murmu. Crackdown on middlemen: MLA Sameer Mohanty gave strict instructions to the administration that no role of middlemen of any kind will be tolerated in the operation of this haat. He said that the revenue from the haat will go directly into the government's account, which will give impetus to the development work of the area. More than 500 stalls: District Council President Bari Murmu said that this haat will prove to be a boon for the rural economy. More than 500 stalls have been set up here, where local farmers, small traders and women from self-help groups will be able to sell their products. This event will continue till January 15.
Cultural Significance: Combination of Tusu and Makar
Makar Sankranti in Kolhan is not just a date but a shared celebration of happiness. The fragrance of pitha (dish) and the echo of Tusu songs have now reached the cities from the villages. The round of fairs starting after Makar Snan on 14th January will bind the entire region in the thread of cultural unity.